By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 15: The Commissionerate of Food Safety, Meghalaya, is awaiting test results from fish samples imported from Assam to check for heavy metals, especially lead, exceeding safe limits.
This follows a recent DownToEarth report revealing unsafe lead levels in several fish species sold in Guwahati markets.
Samples collected from markets across the state’s districts were sent to Edward Food Research & Analysis Centre Limited, Kolkata. Deputy Commissioner (Food Safety)–Enforcement, D.B.S. Mukhim, said there is no reason for public panic at this stage.
“As of now, there is no need to panic. If the report indicates the presence of heavy metals, especially lead, we will decide on further action accordingly,” Mukhim stated on Thursday.
She noted that many Meghalaya fish traders rely on Assam imports. “We are not taking this lightly,” she added. Routine inspections and sample testing continue at district level, with reports submitted regularly.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said food safety officials carry out random checks, though testing every consignment is not feasible. “Wherever abnormal levels are detected, samples are tested at the marketplace or supplier level, and appropriate action is taken,” he explained.
Meghalaya consumes 28,000–30,000 metric tonnes of fish annually. Local production has grown from 10,000–12,000 metric tonnes a decade ago to over 20,000 metric tonnes today, but a shortfall of nearly 10,000 metric tonnes is met through imports.
The government is promoting fish farming through support schemes, aquaponics, reservoir-based farming, and private entrepreneurship. While most farmers operate small-scale, efforts are underway to encourage 20–30 large commercial players to scale up production.
“The aim is self-sufficiency, livelihood generation, and higher farmer income. Once production exceeds 30,000 metric tonnes, the state plans to export to neighbouring states,” Sangma said, adding that locally produced fish are expected to be healthier and less prone to contamination.
The state continues proactive monitoring to protect public health while working toward greater self-reliance in fisheries.
